Positive feedback between oxytocin and uterine contractions drives childbirth.
Stretching of the cervix increases oxytocin release (Ferguson reflex), uterus contracts more, forming a positive feedback loop. Prostaglandins ripen the cervix. The cycle stops after birth.
Labour has three stages. Pain relief options include epidural. Caesarean section is surgical delivery.
Key idea: oxytocin and contractions form a positive feedback loop.
Positive feedback between oxytocin and uterine contractions drives childbirth.
Parturition is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Positive Feedback, Pregnancy Hormones, Lactation.
Contractions increase from every 20 minutes to every 2 to 3 minutes.
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Parturition. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
The closest topics to Parturition are Positive Feedback, Pregnancy Hormones, Lactation, Female Reproductive System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Parturition. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
Parturition: Positive feedback between oxytocin and uterine contractions drives childbirth. Positive Feedback: An effect amplifies its own cause, as in labour contractions and the LH surge. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Positive Feedback and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
An effect amplifies its own cause, as in labour contractions and the LH surge.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyhCG maintains the corpus luteum early on, then the placenta produces progesterone and oestrogen.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyProlactin stimulates milk production and oxytocin triggers milk let-down.
🌸 Reproduction & EndocrinologyOvaries release eggs and hormones; the uterus nurtures the developing embryo.
🌸 Reproduction & Endocrinology